Annual test pass rates on the rise again

First-time annual test pass rates for HGV and PSV have risen for the third consecutive year, according to the latest figures from the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

In 2014/15, large vehicles passed the annual test on their first attempt in 82.4 per cent of cases – up from 81 per cent on the previous year, which itself was an improvement on the 80.2 per cent rate in 2012/13.

Headlamp aim remains the most prevalent grounds for failure in both the passenger and heavy goods motor vehicle categories, followed closely by lamps and braking system components. For HGV trailers, the top three fail reasons were service and parking brake performance, and lamps.

For HGV motor vehicles, other common fail reasons included service, parking and secondary brake performance; the steering mechanism; suspension; speedometer or tachograph problems; and wiring.

For PSV, concerns with the body interior, doors and emergency exits, and seat belts were among the additional  causes of test fails, as well as steering, suspension, service and parking brake issues.

Meanwhile, trailers also commonly failed due to problems with brake system components; suspension; reflectors and rear markings; spray suppression, wings or wheel arches; tyre condition; service brake operation; and road wheels and hubs.

“It is encouraging to see that the first time pass rate at annual test has increased again,” commented DVSA chief executive Paul Satoor.

“Owners and drivers in Great Britain clearly recognise the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, helping to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and contributing to the safety of all road users.

“We will continue to work with the industry to target the small minority of operators and drivers who fail to meet roadworthiness standards.”

The figures were published as part of DVSA’s annual vehicle testing and enforcement statistics – previously known as the effectiveness report – which also revealed that prohibition rates for mechanical checks at roadside stops have decreased to 35.7 per cent in 2014/15, from 37.7 per cent the year before.

Meanwhile, the report starkly demonstrates the shift away from annual testing at DVSA’s own centres to non-DVSA sites, including authorised testing facilities (ATF) and designated premises (DPs).

In 2014-15, 84 per cent of HGVs were tested at non-DVSA sites – compared to just 68 per cent the year before, and 51 per cent in 2012-13.